What Can AI Do for Warehouse Maintenance and Operations?

Successful AI implementation in warehouse maintenance depends on a robust data foundation and optimized manual processes rather than the technology itself. Nick Haas, co-founder of MaintainX, explains that while general AI like ChatGPT utilizes vast public datasets, operational AI requires specific, structured, and accurate internal data that many companies have yet to properly collect. Digitizing broken processes fails to yield results; therefore, organizations must conduct thorough reviews involving frontline workers to identify operational bottlenecks and root causes of inefficiency. Despite the rise of advanced robotics, human involvement remains essential for at least the next three decades to handle non-repetitive tasks and support automated systems. Engaging employees early in the digital transformation process not only improves data quality but also mitigates fears regarding job displacement by shifting human roles toward higher-value oversight and reskilling.